Sometimes during our journey as parents of children with a disability, we become consumed with an overwhelming feeling that we’re just not doing enough to help them succeed, believing that somehow it’s our fault. This can happen for no apparent reason. We even feel that no matter what we do, things just aren’t going to change and, too often, we are paralyzed with guilt if we even consider taking … [Read more...]
When Our Children with Disabilities Rise to the Occasion
(For Dana) T.S. Eliot wrote that April is the “cruellest month.” Not for me. I find it’s barren February, with its unkind cold, and in which month I have known too many men of character who have died recently, and long past. At 6’7” with a perpetual mustache, bright blue eyes, and a voice like a thunderclap, Boyd Salsbury cut an imposing profile. His demeanor was gruff, his words carefully … [Read more...]
Picture This
When something heartbreaking happens in our life we may start to experience some shame. Especially if we thought we could have done something to prevent it from happening. Whether you are a new special needs parent or you’ve been on the journey a while shame always loves to come knocking. The enemy loves to build a wall of shame and put our pictures on it. Every time we see that wall, he wants to … [Read more...]
I Am “Just” A Special Needs Mom
The doctor asked me what it is I "do." I answered, "I'm just a mom." He went on to berate me on my value and said I should never say I'm "just" a mom. He said it is the most important job for women. So I asked, "What does your wife do?" "She's a nurse." <crickets> I had to wonder what happened to those noble thoughts on stay at home mothering. Of course, maybe there was more to their story. … [Read more...]
Protect Our Children, Lord
Do you have fears for your children? What do you worry about or think about daily? Is there something more on your mind that bothers you about the future of your child? *Mature material included in this blog I have a confessional. One of the things I think about the most and have the most thoughts about is protecting my son Charlie. I mean protecting Charlie from others who want to take … [Read more...]
Saving Up the Hard Stuff
“So much will change,” they say, pointing to your swollen belly, nearly giddy with the kind of knowledge that only experience supplies. “Your life will never be the same!” I know, you think smugly. I’ve heard it, I’ve read it, it’s the mantra you mothers all repeat. But they’re right, of course. While things will change, many of those changes are expected: those that arise from the training of … [Read more...]